Toronto police warn of extortion scam where suspects send victims 'graphic violent images'

A Toronto Police Service logo patch is shown in Toronto, on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby

Toronto police say they’re receiving an “increasing” number of reports about a scam where suspects send their victims “graphic violent images” in an effort to extort money from them.

In a news release issued Monday, police said Toronto-area residents have been receiving calls or text messages from American phone numbers with the area codes 470 and 404.

Investigators say the graphic images are then texted to the victim and a demand for money is made. If the money is not paid, the sender allegedly says, “violence” will come to the victim, police explained.

“We would like to advise the public that this is a known scam in a bid to extort money from the receiver,” a news release read.

Police said reports of this scam are being made with “increasing frequency” and offered tips to avoid becoming a victim.

If you receive one of these messages or phone calls, police said it should be reported immediately. Police advised not to pay any money and if your personal information was previously compromised, consider changing your passwords.

Police are asking anyone with information about the investigation to contact them at 416-808-2222 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.